Heitacai, a unique species of Chinese cabbage, has been grown in Rugao, Nantong for more than 1,000 years. It is rich in vitamin C, selenium, and dietary fiber. [Photo/WeChat account: rugaofabu]

The China Rural Special Technology Association recently approved the establishment of a scientific and technological institution focusing on heitacai, a unique species of Chinese cabbage grown in Rugao, Nantong, local media outlets reported.

It is among the 11 sci-tech institutions in Jiangsu province that received approval, which will be valid for three years.

The institution will be built by a local agricultural product company, along with the Jiangsu and Rugao associations for science and technology, as well as Nanjing Agricultural University.

Led by a panel of agricultural experts, the institution will deepen the integration of services, technology, and economy, as well as upgrade the seed quality, planting skills, and processing techniques of heitacai to enhance output and boost the rural rejuvenation efforts.